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City to spray for mosquitoes during evening of Wed., Aug. 24

August 24, 2016

Dear Neighbor,

The city’s Department of Public Health has just informed us that based on results from its citywide mosquito surveillance program, the department will spray to kill adult mosquitoes in parts of the ward beginning at dusk today, Wednesday, Aug. 24, continuing through 1:00 a.m. (weather permitting).

While the spray is not harmful to people or pets and is routinely sprayed in residential areas across the nation, residents of targeted neighborhoods may choose to stay indoors and close their windows while spraying is underway, as an extra precaution.

The targeted area is from Devon to Touhy, and from the lake to Ravenwood.

CDPH would like to remind residents to take precautions against mosquitoes that may carry West Nile virus, including:

Use insect repellent that contains DEET, Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.

Eliminate standing water. This includes emptying water from flowerpots, gutters, pool covers, pet water dishes, and birdbaths regularly.

Keep grass and weeds short to eliminate hiding places for adult mosquitoes.

When outside between dusk and dawn, wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing including long pants, long sleeve shirts, socks, and shoes.

Check that all screens, windows and doors are tight-fitting and free of holes and tears.

Check on neighbors regularly who may need additional assistance, including the elderly.

In addition to spraying, CDPH’s comprehensive mosquito abatement program includes dropping larvicide in catch basins, which helps limit the number of mosquitoes that can carry the virus, and regularly testing mosquitoes caught in traps throughout the city. By utilizing data the city is able to most efficiently target high-risk areas for the virus.

The material being used to control the adult mosquitoes, Zenivex™, is approved for use by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and has been widely applied to control mosquitoes in outdoor residential and recreational areas across the city. The spray will be applied by licensed mosquito abatement technicians from Vector Disease Control International, a leader in the mosquito control industry. Guiding the crews through the streets will be supervisors from the Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation.